As children mature, their bond with parents transforms from innocent affection to discerning critique and ultimately, reconciliation. This evolution underscores the significance of emotional security, steady actions over admonishments, and the responsibility of parents. The piece advocates for a journey of growth together, emphasizing the creation of profound connections rather than exerting dominance.

“Children begin by loving their parents; as they grow older they judge them; sometimes they forgive them.” – Oscar WildeThis quote feels honest because it reflects real family life, not a perfect version of it. Childhood starts with trust and love. Growing up brings questions and opinions. Adulthood often brings understanding. For parents, this line is not a warning. It is an invitation. It asks parents to grow alongside their children, not above them. The lessons hidden here are quiet but powerful.

Love comes first, and it is unquestioned

In early years, children love without filters. Parents are heroes. Words are taken seriously. Actions are copied. Parents are reminded at this point that a child’s first language at home is love. Emotional safety is the most important factor here.Children cherish the times when their parents patiently listen, are dependable, and fulfill their commitments. Even when life becomes complicated, children frequently return because of these early experiences.

Judgment is not rebellion, it is growth

As children grow, they start noticing gaps between words and actions. This is not disrespect. It is awareness. Teenagers and young adults judge because they are learning how the world works.Parents can see this phase as a mirror, not a threat. Being judged means a child feels safe enough to think freely. Parents who accept questions, instead of shutting them down, teach children how to think, not what to think.

Children remember patterns, not speeches

Long lectures fade. Daily behavior stays. Children remember how conflict was handled at home. They remember tone, silence, and reactions.If anger was always loud, they remember fear. If apologies were real, they remember humility. Parenting leaves behind patterns, not slogans. This is why small, consistent actions matter more than dramatic advice.

Forgiveness grows from accountability

Forgiveness does not come automatically. It grows when parents acknowledge mistakes without excuses. Saying “that hurt” or “that was wrong” carries more weight than any rule.Children forgive more easily when parents do not pretend to be flawless. Accountability builds respect. It shows children that authority and honesty can exist together.

Control fades, connection lasts

Parents control children when they are young. This control slowly fades with age. What replaces it is connection.Parents who focus only on control often lose emotional access later. Parents who build trust keep a place in their child’s inner world. The quote reminds parents that the goal is not obedience forever, but relationship for life.

Growing together is the real success

This quote is not about blame. It is about timing. Love comes first. Judgment follows. Forgiveness arrives when understanding matures.Parents who are willing to learn, unlearn, and grow make space for healing conversations later in life. Growth does not end with parenting. It evolves with it.Disclaimer: This article is for informational and reflective purposes only. It does not replace professional parenting, psychological, or counseling advice. Every family and child is different, and parenting experiences may vary based on personal, cultural, and emotional factors.

A baby girl often arrives like a fresh season in a family’s life. Many parents look for names that feel soft, rooted, and hopeful. Nature-inspired names that mean a new beginning carry that quiet promise. They remind everyone that every life starts with growth, light, and change. Here are 9 such names that sound Indian, feel warm, and hold meanings worth cherishing.

International best-selling author and leadership expert, Robin Sharma is best-known for his book ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’. Through his works, Sharma has turned into an inspiration of sorts for many and he often shares his wisdom with his fans and followers on social media. In a recent post, Sharma shared his 10 rules for a better world. These 10 rules cut through noise, urging one to indulge in self-mastery amid chaos. In a world full of quick fixes and endless scrolls, these simple rules help build unbreakable character, kinder communities, and a healthier planet. Here’s what they are:

Finding damaged and worn-out cookware is common in most households. Once discarded, these utensils lose their importance and become friends of dustbins. Specially, the scratched pans, dented saucepans, or broken handles end up in landfills. However, you can do wonders with these broken old pans and cookwares and show your creative side to the world. A little bit of practical thinking and creativity can turn your old cookware into something beautiful and useful. You can turn them into decorative pieces and save the environment. Reusing metal cookware reduces waste and also extends the life cycle of materials. Here are five brilliant and sustainable ways to reuse your old, broken pans and cookware.Turn them into pretty planters Yes, you can convert your old broken pots and pans into attractive planters. You can grow herbs, flowers, or even small vegetables as these utensils are known for their durability and depth. These make for perfect containers for soil and plants. All you need to do is drill small drainage holes at the base of the cookware to prevent waterlogging. The idea is to make it look beautiful and practical. Bird feeders in the garden

If your shallow frying pans and lids are non-usable, you can repurpose them as bird baths or feeders and keep them in gardens. When placed on a small stand, these broken items can be of great use for feeding birds. If a pan is deep, you can fill it with water and birds can drink or bathe. If it’s a lightweight pan, you can also hang them in your garden with sturdy rope. Storage solutionsWell, your old cookware can also serve as effective storage tools across different areas of the home. Big saucepans can be used to store stationery, cleaning supplies, tools, or newspapers. In kitchens these pots can hold cooking utensils. Smaller pans are quite useful for organising drawers and storing tiny buttons or sewing materials. This form of reuse reduces the need for plastic organisers.Decorative wall artBroken or unused cookware can also be converted into unique decorative arts. With little creativity, you can show your artistic side by turning frying pans and pot lids into wall clocks by fitting a simple clock mechanism (easily available). You can also paint them or leave with their natural metal finish. Flat pans can be repurposed as frames for mirrors as well. Interesting, right? Candle holders and lighting accessories

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Broken metal cookware can also work well for lighting-related reuse. Shallow pans can be used as candle holders which can be useful and reusable. Also, these make extremely beautiful centrepieces, holding pillar candles along with sand, or seasonal decorations. You can add LED light inside and make them glow! So with proper care and safety precautions, you can use old and broken metal cookware into something interesting, beautiful and add a unique touch to your home décor. So starting now on, stop treating your old, broken pans as waste. You can use the above mentioned ideas and repurpose cookware instead of throwing them away.

There is no doubt that minimalist interiors look pristine and heavenly. These kinds of interiors have long been synonymous with white walls and soft greys turning any space serene. However, we can’t ignore the fact that when taken too far, these palettes can also leave spaces cold and impersonal. So, let’s appreciate the world of shades and the latest shift in design models which show how colour, when chosen thoughtfully, can bring warmth and personal touch to minimalist homes.Choose russet brown shades for natural feelMinimalism doesn’t always mean rejecting tradition. Russet tones in minimalist space allows a place to grow in tandem with earthy tones which are warm and deeply rooted. Natural brown gradients bring texture and warmth and also look minimalist.Bring home bluesYou can’t keep blue away from your house. Different shades of blue flow when mixed with peach tones create magic. These transitions mimic natural light gradients. Use blue to add visual rhythm in blank spaces.Go for earthy shades of pink

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No we are not talking neon pink. Don’t be scared. Pink when mixed with earthy and dusky tones, it creates something soothing. Muted rose hues in woodwork look absolutely amazing and offer a personality with warmth. Soft pinks always work as they evoke comfort and beauty.Ivory grey for eleganceCool grey is a minimalist staple, but when it’s too icy, interiors can feel cold. So switch to Ivory grey or warm-toned grey which adds softness and richness. Also choose greys with warm undertones (yellow or beige) over cool ones.Black, a minimalist heroBlack is bold and beautiful, but in minimalist design, the shade plays a crucial balancing act. Think slim black door frames, or accent pieces that anchor white expanses work like the yin to white’s yang. Black has the ability to enhance architectural details.Nothing better than sage green

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Sage green is a colour which is making waves in 2026. This green creates a serene cocoon-like ambience which is much needed. The muted green connects the indoors with nature and uplift mood instantly. Greens are psychologically calming and go well with neutral elements.Wooden tonesUsing natural tones inside the house is also common these days. Wood has rich variations to become powerful visual anchors. Deep brown wood highlights help the minimalist design feel grounded yet noticeable. Sometimes material is the colour.

Motherhood has profoundly reshaped Alia Bhatt’s perspective, particularly concerning safety and worry. The actress now navigates a constant undercurrent of concern, extending empathy to others’ vulnerabilities and prioritizing her daughter’s well-being. This shift influences her career choices, emphasizing a balance between work and family life, and a trust in instincts over perfection.

Becoming a parent changes how a person truly sees the world. For Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, this change has been surprising, especially when it comes to safety and worry. The ‘Jigra’ actress started to see ordinary circumstances differently after giving birth to her daughter Raha in November 2022, both for her own sake and for the sake of her child’s welfare. Here’s everything parents need to know about this new kind of fear and how it actually helps the child.

A new kind of fear: Worry that never stops

Alia has openly said that motherhood opened her life to a constant undercurrent of worry, as per her interview with CNBC. She shared how she feels “fear and nerves” about wanting to do everything right for her child, even joking that her “me time” vanished. This kind of anxiety is common; parents watch over their children so keenly that stress becomes part of daily life.A review published inSage Journals finds that higher stress can mildly reduce maternal sensitivity, but it also shows why understanding and managing stress is crucial for healthy parent-child bonds.

Road safety became personal

One of the most striking changes Alia described is how her view of road safety completely changed after becoming a mother. She explained that she no longer sits in the front seat and now insists on back-seat seatbelt use, something many people overlook. Her concern isn’t just personal fear; it stems from a deeper empathy for everyone on the road.Parents definitely have a major role in shaping a child’s knowledge about road safety, and they feel responsible for their travel decisions. This parental influence can improve children’s safety awareness but also raise anxiety levels, especially in heavy traffic or unsafe road conditions.

Empathy expanded beyond her child

Alia’s reflections go beyond her own experiences. She has spoken about feeling empathy for others who struggle with unsafe commuting options, like families crowded on a scooter. Her perspective mirrors a somewhat common fact that becoming a parent can widen emotional sensitivity, making people more receptive to others’ risks and vulnerabilities.This growth in empathy can be a parenting strength, but experts warn that it’s important to transform concern into supportive actions rather than control. Otherwise, overprotection may increase stress without improving outcomes.

Trusting instincts over perfection

Alia rejects the notion of “ideal parenting.” Rather, she says to trust ones own gut and learn as you go. This is a message that many parents who strike a balance between flexibility and intention will find relatable. According to her, a child’s genuine needs, comfort, and care are more important than rigid regulations.Children flourish when caretakers offer security, consistency, and explanation instead of pressure or perfection. Perseverance and independence are encouraged by compassionate, straightforward direction.

Balancing life, work, and parenting

Alia had to change her career choices in order to be a parent. She now works at a slower pace and selects tasks that let her spend more time with her daughter. Many working parents who reevaluate their priorities after giving birth are familiar with this type of change.For long-term wellbeing, this balance is important. Children feel safe and parents feel more in control when parents organize duties to meet the requirements of the family.Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available interviews and research studies. Efforts were made to verify accuracy. Views attributed to individuals reflect their public statements and cited sources.

Some journeys begin with plans, others begin with faith and create a perfect premise for stories we carry for a lifetime. My drive from Mumbai to Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of India’s most unique Jyotirlingas with three faces, began like a beautiful monsoon retreat. The Sun was playing hide and seek with clouds and the Western Ghats smelled so fresh and clean. I was happy. I had planned the trip with my parents and my two-year-old toddler who was fast asleep beside me. But we had no idea that within hours, the peaceful journey would turn into a fierce storm that would test our patience, courage and faith.The only Jyotirlinga with three facesTrimbakeshwar is no ordinary place. Situated close to Nashik in Maharashtra, it is a place of pilgrimage destination. For those who don’t know, this is the only Jyotirlinga temple in the world where Lord Shiva is worshipped in a three-faced form. These three faces symbolise Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Mahesh (the destroyer). Unlike other temples, there is no vertical lingam to see at Trimbakeshwar. Instead, we bow before three small protrusions set within a silver crown. It is a perfect symbol of balance.For devotees of Lord Shiva, Trimbakeshwar is deeply sacred. For curious travellers, this is a place where mythology and nature meet. The temple town is set at the foothills of the Brahmagiri range, from where the revered Godavari River originates.Journey from Mumbai to Trimbak The drive from Mumbai to Trimbakeshwar is around 180 km which takes around 5-6 hours. The road passes through the beautiful Kasara Ghat. By the time we reached the temple town, it was noon. The weather was perfectly pleasant, with a calm wind blowing into my hair. We all felt absolutely calm. We parked our car in the temple’s designated parking area with ease. I was mesmerised with the town’s natural setting. The place was alive with the views of mountains, chitchat of devotees, shopkeepers calling out from small stalls. A ₹200 Pass The locals told us that there is no long queue so the ‘darshan’ can be done easily. So, we decided to stand in the normal devotees line. But soon we realised that it would take three hours to reach inside the temple. I decided to skip the line and get ourselves VIP tickets because my mother had a bad knee issue and standing or even walking for long hours is not possible for her. It’s a fact that temple darshan can be overwhelming, especially with elders and toddlers. Also, the weather outside suddenly turned all windy.Flying utensils and tins After enquiring, I got to know that the VIP darshan counter is about a kilometer from the temple. I asked my parents to sit inside the restaurant with the baby. I left to get the pass, which turned out to be one of the stupidest decisions of the trip! You’ll know why soon. I started walking aimlessly not knowing exactly where the centre was. And within seconds, the sky changed its mind and it started drizzling which quickly transformed into a scary stormy situation. Within minutes, the coastal wind started howling like a warning siren. Rain lashed down with unexpected force and chaos unfolded.There were several shops selling metal utensils (bartans) which started flying. I had never experienced a coastal storm before. Soon the tin-roofed stalls in the region were violently rattling, some even collapsed. I was scared and far away from my parents and family. I remember making them sit inside one of these flying tin restaurants. I had to take shade under an ATM building nearby. The roads echoed with the sound of people shouting, and rain pounding. For nearly half an hour, it felt like the town was locked in a battle with nature.The moment the rain faded, I decided to continue my journey. I got out and saw myself staring at a large statue of Lord Ganesha. The idol was shaded by a tin sheet from three sides. And suddenly, the storm intensified and the tin began to sway ferociously, creaking under the force of the wind.It was then that fear gripped me. The tin threatened to break free at any moment. Had it fallen, people in the area could have been seriously hurt.But it didn’t. Instead it became a shelter.The tin sheet, wildly unstable, was stopped by the presence of the Ganesha idol under it. The massive statue acted like a physical barrier and time slowed in that moment. In that terrifying hour, it felt like Lord Ganesha himself stood guard, shielding devotees from harm. Everything was overwhelmingly positive at that moment, because when faith protects, fear loses its power.Soon, I reached the ticket centre only to be told that tickets could be booked easily on the official website. And that’s when I felt stupid. I booked online passes. The process was simple, and organised. The entry was easy without long queues.The moment I stepped inside, the energy changed. There was water everywhere but the winds froze and the weather turned peaceful, as if the last hour did not happen. It was such a grounding experience that made us feel so small in front of Mother Nature’s power. The chants of ‘Om Namay Shivay’ filled the air. The stone walls darkened by centuries of prayers and devotion created a sense of timelessness. We greeted the main pandit who gave blessings to my baby and a piece of water-filled coconut to me. The temple was crowded with devotees but at that moment I felt standing alone standing before the three-faced Jyotirlinga. It was one of those moments that can only be experienced, and can’t be described in a few words.An experience etched in timeTravelling with a toddler changes how you experience places. Every sound feels personal and louder, every danger closer. Yet watching my child, happy and dancing and so unaware of the storm’s magnitude, made the moment even more beautiful. It then striked me why families undertake pilgrimages together: not just to seek blessings, but to share belief across generations.My parents, believers, later said something that stayed with me: “These are the moments that make faith personal.”Rituals that followed

Close to the temple is the Kushavarta Kund, it is a sacred tank connected to the origin of the Godavari. Devotees perform rituals here. There are several small markets selling rudraksha beads, copper vessels, puja items, incense and Godavari Shiva Lingams (very famous). I also picked up a few souvenirs and a Godavari Shiva Lingam.How to reach Trimbakeshwar TempleBy Road: Well connected from Mumbai and Nashik. Regular buses and private taxis are available.By Train: Nashik Road Railway Station (around 30 km away) is the nearest major railhead.By Air: Mumbai is the closest major airport; from there, road travel is the best option.We returned to Mumbai tired but emotionally full and blessed.

Playgrounds are a world of excitement, but they also come with unseen risks. By following simple guidelines such as inspecting the play area, sharing equipment, wearing appropriate footwear, refraining from pushing others, adhering to designated age zones, and being aware of their guardian, kids can navigate these spaces with safety and assurance.

Playgrounds look harmless, but small risks hide in plain sight. A loose bolt, a fast-moving older child, or a moment of distraction can turn fun into injury. Many play areas sit inside parks, school grounds, or housing societies with mixed-age children and uneven maintenance. That makes safety lessons even more important. These 7 playground rules are not just warnings. They are habits that help children stay safe while still enjoying play.

Check the ground before the game begins

Children should learn to look down before looking around. Wet mud after rain, loose gravel, broken tiles, or stray stones can cause slips. In parks, morning dew and evening water sprinklers are common. A quick scan of the ground helps children choose where to run, jump, or sit. This habit also builds awareness, not fear.

One turn means one child

Many injuries happen because of crowding, not falling. Slides, see-saws, and swings are designed for one child at a time. When two children squeeze in, balance is lost. Teaching patience here matters. Waiting for a turn is not just good manners. It protects fingers, legs, and heads from sudden bumps.

Shoes stay on, laces stay tied

Although barefoot play can be dangerous outside the house, it feels joyful. In public areas, hot metal slides during the summer, rough cement edges, and hidden glass fragments are serious issues. Proper shoes that have their laces knotted provide protection and grip. besides this rule teaches kids to take care of their bodies.

No pushing, even during excitement

Playgrounds bring out energy and joy, but excitement can turn rough quickly. Pushing from behind, even as a joke, can sometimes cause serious falls. Children should be taught to stop, speak, and signal if they want space. Using words instead of hands is a simple lesson that stays useful beyond the playground.

Bigger kids, different zones

Older children play faster and jump higher. Younger ones may not judge speed or distance well. Teaching children to notice age groups helps everyone stay safe. If a space feels too rough or fast, moving to another area becomes a smart choice, not a weak one. This builds confidence and self-protection.

Pause when something feels wrong

A loose swing chain, a cracked slide, or a dog wandering nearby are signs to stop playing. Children should know that stepping away is allowed. In many Indian parks, repairs take time. Recognising danger and walking away is a powerful safety skill that lasts a lifetime.

Know where the trusted adult is

Children should always be aware of who is watching them. This does not mean constant fear. It means knowing where help is if and when needed. Whether it is a parent, grandparent, teacher, or caretaker, this rule helps children feel secure and reduces any panic during small accidents.Disclaimer: This article is for general awareness only. Playground conditions vary by location. Parents and caregivers should always supervise children and assess safety based on the environment and the child’s age and abilities.

All those planning a trip to Canada, and have some confusions related to visa, this article might help you a bit. It’s in the context of Indian travellers holding an Indian passport, and who is planning to travel to Canada from India as a tourist. First things first; for them the most crucial thing to factor into their plans is visa processing time. Now, as per the latest update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), applications for a visitor visa submitted from India currently take around 83 days to process.

https://www.canada.ca/

Current processing time for Indian applicants

So, as mentioned earlier, for visitor visa applications made from outside Canada, IRCC lists the processing time for India at 83 days. Do note that this figure was last updated on January 28, 2026, and that the data is refreshed weekly. The processing time gives an idea on how long it took IRCC to process most complete applications in the recent past.It is necessary to mention that this time line, however, does not guarantee or give the maximum limit. It might happen that some applications may be processed faster, while others may take longer depending on individual circumstances.

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What the processing time includes, and excludes

IRCC counts processing time from the day it receives a complete application until a final decision is made. However, the following are not included in the timeline: Time required to transfer documents between a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and the visa office Time taken by applicants to book and provide biometrics If an application is missing documents or information, it may be delayed or even returned, which can significantly, and further extend the overall processing period.

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Who needs a visitor visa to travel to Canada?

This is one question that many of you will ask. For this, travellers need to know that they must have the correct entry document to enter or transit through Canada. Depending on nationality and travel circumstances, this could be: A visitor visaAn electronic travel authorization (eTA)Or, in some cases, just a passport will be sufficientAs regarding Indian passport holders, they would require a visitor visa to travel to Canada.Read more: Baggage Rules, 2026: Duty-free limits, jewellery allowance and advance baggage declaration explained

Visitor visa validity, cost, and length of stay

To secure a Canadian visitor visa, it can cost CAN $100, as per the official information.It can be issued as either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, and will remain valid up to a maximum of 10 years, depending on the applicant’s passport validity and immigration history.Each visit to Canada will let you enjoy a stay of up to six months, unless a different duration is specified by a border services officer at the port of entry.Applicants must hold a valid passport or travel document that covers the entire intended period of stay in Canada.

When the visitor visa is required:

Read more: How many rivers flow through Gir National Park? A closer look at its lifelines

Possible reasons for inadmissibility

Well, not everyone can just enter Canada. An applicant may be found inadmissible for reasons including:

Planning ahead for a smooth trip

Applying far in advance of your intended travel date is highly advised due to the current 83-day processing time for Indian applicants. High application numbers or complicated cases can cause processing delays, so planning beforehand is essential for a hassle-free trip.